How to remove coin corrosion

Elizabeth TumbarelloUpdated February 16, 2018

Coins corrode when they come into contact with chemicals, minerals or the natural elements. Corrosion is unsightly and can cause lasting damage, such as pitting and scarring, to the surface of the coins. Coin collectors and hobbyists can remove corrosion from coins using a number of home-grown methods. There is much debate, even among professionals, about the viability and safety of these methods. While professional cleaning options, like coin soaks and ultrasonic cleaning machines, exist, they are costly and not widely available to the general public.

Wet the coin thoroughly with clean water.

Roll the coin in baking soda. Baking soda is an abrasive substance.

Scrub the corrosion away using a toothbrush or rag. The combination of the abrasive baking soda and the scrubbing action causes the corrosion to chip away.

Rinse the coin clean.

Repeat the scrubbing and rinsing until the corrosion is removed.

Fill a plastic bottle with an acidic substance, such as tomato juice, orange juice or vinegar. Acidic substances loosen the corrosion and allow it to fall away.

Place the coin in the bottle.

Put the lid on the bottle.

Shake the bottle containing the coin for 5 minutes. This ensures the acidic substance reaches every crevasse of the coin.

Allow the coin to sit in the bottle with the acid overnight, if necessary. Wash the coin thoroughly using soap and water after removal.

Fill a cup with mineral oil or olive oil. Either one is viable for removing corrosion from coins. The oils contain trace minerals that loosen dirt and corrosion on metal coins.

Place the coin in the cup. Allow the coin to soak.

Remove the coin after the corrosion has fallen away. This can take several weeks.

Rinse the coin using clean water. Remove the oil using a soft, clean cloth.

Pat down the coin with baking soda and rinse again. Baking soda neutralises the minerals present in the oils and prevents them from doing long-term damage to the coin.

Place acetone nail-polish remover in a glass container.

Drop the coin into the container and acetone. Allow the coin to sit for up to 5 minutes.

Wash the coin thoroughly using soap and water to remove the corrosion and acetone.

Soak the coin again, if desired.

Pat the clean coin with baking soda to neutralise the acetone. Rinse again.

Warning

Removing dirt and corrosion can damage the coin itself. In some cases, cleaning a coin can devalue it. If you are concerned about the value of your coins, seek the help of a professional. Avoid using abrasive substances, such as baking soda, on heavily corroded, damaged or soft metal (gold) coins. These substances can cause irreparable damage.

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About the Author

Elizabeth Tumbarello has been writing since 2006, with her work appearing on various websites. She is an animal lover who volunteers with her local Humane Society. Tumbarello attended Hocking College and is pursuing her Associate of Applied Science in veterinary technology from San Juan College.